Jimmy’s 10k set to be bigger than ever

Jimmy’s 10k set to be bigger than ever

20 February 2019

DETAILS have been unveiled of this year’s Jimmy’s 10k road race in Downpatrick on St Patrick’s Day.

The popular event, organised by East Down AC and supported by MB McGrady & Co, Chartered Accountants, is set to hit the pavements in just three weeks’ time.

The race is set to achieve its highest-ever participant numbers. With numbers capped at 1,000, almost 80% of places have already been allocated, but there’s still time to register. 

Last year Mark McKinstry from North Belfast Harriers was first past the post, in a race that featured 650 runners, including 28 relay teams. First lady home was local star Catherine O’Connor.

Mal McGrady, director of MB McGrady & Co Chartered Accountants, which is sponsoring the event for the tenth successive year, said he was delighted to be associated with the race.

“Jimmy’s 10k is a hugely successful event for the local community. Organised by East Down Athletics Club in memory of its founder, Jimmy Murray, the race attracts runners of all levels from across Northern Ireland – including many of our staff and clients,” he said.

“This year we are celebrating our 10th year of sponsorship. We’re very proud to be associated with such an incredible event that supports the East Down Athletic Club and raises funds for local charities, which reflects MB McGrady’s ethos and ongoing commitment to the local community.”

East Down Athletics Club established the first Jimmy’s 10k in memory of Mr Murray, an Ardglass school teacher and athletics enthusiast, who was one of the founding members of the club in 1987. 

Joe Quinn, Jimmy’s 10k race director, who is well known in the town for all things running and his service to EDAC, said: “Jimmy’s 10k is a highlight of the road racing calendar, attracting top runners as well as encouraging beginners to put on their trainers and take to the roads.  

“Most people, even those from outside the running fraternity, know of this event, and I believe that the primary aim, which was to keep Jimmy Murray’s name at the forefront of athletics in NI, has been achieved,” he added.

“This has been made possible with the help of our continued support from the local community, businesses and sponsors including MB McGrady & Co Chartered Accountants.”

Prizes are awarded to first, second and third placed male and female runners and age group winners. There are also team prizes for male, female and mixed relay teams.  

Registration costs £17 for affiliated runners and £19 for non-affiliated runners.  Relay registration is £20. There is no entry on the day for 10K or relay runners. 

 For further information visit www.eastdownac.co.uk  or search East Down AC on Facebook.